Proclamations, October 9, 1984

Proclamation 5252 -- National Down's Syndrome Month, 1984

October 9, 1984

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

In the past decade, the United States has entered a new era of hope for its developmentally
disabled citizens. This new age of enlightened understanding recognizes that developmentally
disabled persons have a great potential for achieving and overcoming handicaps. Down's
syndrome, a condition once thought to be without hope of positive change, is one of the best
symbols of this changing attitude.

Progress is evident on several fronts. Research has uncovered the genetic basis for the condition
and points the way to its ultimate prevention. Advances in medical treatment can minimize defects
associated with the condition and have extended the life-span of those who have it. School doors
have been unlocked to Down's syndrome children, and special education classes within
mainstream school programs have been developed. Vocational training in preparation for gainful
employment and independent living has become available.

These advances have not occurred by chance. They are the result of the collective effort of
concerned physicians, scientific investigators, teachers and other professionals, parent groups such
as the National Down's Syndrome Congress, and government. But the task remains unfinished.
Public awareness and acceptance of the capabilities of persons who have Down's syndrome can
greatly facilitate their being welcomed in all communities.

The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 254, has designated October 1984 as ``National
Down's Syndrome Month'' and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation
in observance of this month.

Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby
proclaim October 1984 as National Down's Syndrome Month, and I urge all Americans to join me
in encouraging renewed efforts on behalf of the health and well-being of individuals with Down's
syndrome. I invite all concerned citizens, agencies, and organizations to unite during October in
support of appropriate observances and activities that will assist individuals with Down's
syndrome and their families to a fuller and more rewarding life.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of October, in the year of our
Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America
the two hundred and ninth.

Ronald Reagan

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 2:38 p.m., October 9, 1984]

Proclamation 5253 -- Fire Prevention Week, 1984

October 9, 1984

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

Each year, fire strikes one out of ten homes in our country. Our Nation leads the world in
technological achievements but, unfortunately, it also leads the world in per capita fire losses.
Every hour one person dies, and every month $2 billion is lost as a result of fire. Between 2
percent and 3 percent of our gross national product is consumed in fires annually.

It is encouraging to note that, due to the increase in public fire education efforts and use of smoke
detectors, there has been a leveling off of fire deaths in recent years. Many homes, however, are
still without these safety devices, and I urge community leaders to encourage their use and
emphasize the need to keep them in good working order.

Removing the threat of fire from our families and businesses is a national priority. New initiatives
are needed to educate the public concerning fire safety and to advise them how they may prevent
or survive fire situations. More and more private sector and volunteer organizations are joining
the efforts to reduce the Nation's fire loss and this is commendable.

Special recognition is due the efforts of over a million men and women, both volunteer and career,
of our Nation's fire services who daily risk their lives to protect others. It is appropriate that we
take time to thank them for their unselfish dedication to the principle of helping others in
desperate need. Americans should also appreciate the work of all organizations concerned with
fire prevention and control efforts -- in particular those which are members of the Joint Council of
National Fire Service Organizations.

Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby
designate the week of October 7 through 13, 1984, as Fire Prevention Week. I call upon the
people of the United States and interested groups, volunteer organizations, businesses, and
governmental organizations to plan and to participate in fire prevention activities during this
week.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 9th day of October, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the
two hundred and ninth.

Ronald Reagan

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 2:39 p.m., October 9, 1984]

Proclamation 5254 -- Mental Illness Awareness Week, 1984

October 9, 1984

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

Mental illnesses are among the most misunderstood disorders. As a result, many of our citizens
experience unnecessary pain. Stigma -- a by-product of fear and misunderstanding -- places an
unwarranted burden on those with mental disorders and their families. It is of particular concern
that the stigma associated with these problems often discourages people from seeking the help
they need.

A recent National Institute of Mental Health research study found that one-fifth of adult
Americans -- over 24 million people -- suffered a diagnosable mental disorder in the previous six
months. In addition, an estimated 12 million children in this country have a mental disorder. Many
will7E7E7E never7E7E7E reach7E7E7E full7E7E7E potential7E7E7E because their illnesses will
go unrecognized and untreated.

The cost of mental illnesses to this Nation is in excess of $50 billion annually in health care and
lost productivity. The cost in human suffering is beyond reckoning; however, the promise of relief
is becoming a reality for many.

Research during recent decades has led to new and more effective drug, behavioral, and
psychosocial treatments. For many, the pain of depression can be eased, suicide prevented,
hallucinations and delusions assuaged, and crippling anxieties eliminated. Many children
vulnerable to serious developmental and psychological problems can be protected by early
diagnosis and intervention.

In recognition of the unparalleled growth in scientific knowledge about mental illnesses and the
need to increase awareness of such knowledge, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 322, has
designated the week beginning October 7, 1984 as ``Mental Illness Awareness Week'' and
authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this week.

Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby
proclaim the week beginning October 7, 1984, as Mental Illness Awareness Week. I call upon all
health providers, educators, the media, public and private organizations, and the people of the
United States to observe this week by participating in appropriate ceremonies and activities.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of October, in the year of our
Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America
the two hundred and ninth.

Ronald Reagan

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 2:40 p.m., October 9, 1984]